DesolateJoker

Well, I've decided to stop posting any more on this. In an effort to not leave you completely in the dark, this post will contain the last part of Chapter 7. Yes there is more, and no I won't send it to you or post it. Granted, this is subject to change at some future point, but at this junction I'm not feeling particularly motivated toward that end. Thus I present the final bit of DJ's story that shall see the light of day in the near future. Word of warning, I didn't bother to reread this section before posting, so it's not as I would fully wish it to be. In fact, it's quite a bit shorter than I expect it will end up should I actually edit it.


“Who’s the soldier?”
“Nobody important. Now, what can I do for you today Dr. Harrison?”
“I just thought I’d stop by to tell you that the PAGERS experiment was a complete success.”
“Wonderful! I knew the damn thing would work. What did old Irons have to say about that?”
“I wasn’t able to tell him doctor. His office was empty, and the doors to Green Sector are on complete lockdown.”
“They’re what?! Are they trying to reopen the gateway? Do you know if anyone has come back?”
“Who are you again?”
“That’s not important. Did anyone come back through the gateway?”
“I don’t know, and I don’t think I should be talking to you about it.”
“It’s okay Dr. Harrison. Joker here was leading the protection team for Green Sector before he was unceremoniously dumped next door to me.”
“What did you do to get landed in here Joker?”
“Let’s just say I questioned the authority of the General, and he didn’t like that. There may have been some choice words for your dear Dr. Irons as well, but I don’t exactly remember everything that happened.”
“There were rumors that the first experiment met with problems, but I…”
“Problems?! That damned Dr. Irons shut the gateway before the team could come back through! That ******* sentenced those people to death, and he knows it.”
“Now Joker, that’s not entirely true. What have we talked about?”
“I know, I know, but you said that if they didn’t use your crystal theory for their return trip, that they might not survive the trip back.”
“I see you’ve been teaching again Dr. Brantiff. How much does he know?”
“All of it. Now, how far along are you on building the suit?”
“I’d say we need another 3 days to incorporate the results of today’s experiment. Once that’s done, all of the theoretical work is finished. All that’s left is to actually put someone in the thing for a test drive. Typically that’s a job for Green Sector, but seeing as how they’ve shut the place down, I doubt we will be able to test it until they are finished with whatever it is they’re doing.”

“Dammit Joker, that’s the emergency siren. They’re going to be locking this place down in less than 5 minutes.”
“I know that doc, so you’d best help me get this damn thing on before they get here. I don’t want to have to kill you, but I will if it becomes necessary.”
“Listen Joker, Brantiff had a number of other theories regarding this suit’s use that you might want to hear.”
“Trust me, he told me ALL of them, at great length.”
“Alright, the suit’s locked up tight.”
“I’d suggest you start running then doc. This base and everyone in it are going to be a pile of slag in less than 30 minutes. I figure that gives you just enough time to clear the tunnel entrance to the mainland.”

******

Dusk and I had prearranged to meet at the Talos Island station the next morning, and my trip from King’s Row turned out to be rather pleasant. I had decided to make an early start of it, so just before dawn I made my way to the King’s Row station and began studying the map for the shortest route. Apparently I would need to leg it across Steel Canyon in order to switch to another line that could take me to the island, but this gave me a chance to fully view that portion of the city without the gloom of night hanging over it.

Making my way north along one of the many sidewalks, my eyes were drawn back and forth to the hustle and bustle common to any major city. Steel Canyon was apparently the major business district for Paragon City, and the steady flow of briefcases, ties, and business suits merely confirmed this status. As always, the criminals of this city had also made an early start of it, and the nameless workers were all too happy to thank me for intervening in what would have undoubtedly been a very bad day.

The canyon was a marvel to behold as the sun poked its head above the war wall to my right. The solemn glass and steel high rises were bathed in a golden light that seemed to breathe new life into the city. Despite the dangers inherent to this place, I could see why so many flocked to its walls. It may not have been my idea of heaven, but to the citizens of this city, it was undeniably the next best thing.

A thought suddenly struck me as I stepped onto the platform at the Talos Island station. Dusk and I were aware of our rendezvous, but Cinaed had been left in the dark. He had not left me with a method to get in touch with him, and I was running ideas of how to do just that through my head when I noticed Dusk. She was back in her outfit from the night before, and was sitting atop the railing outside the exit platform for the train. As more of her and the island came into view, it became apparent that she was chatting with someone. Evidently I wouldn’t need any of those half-baked ideas for contacting Cinaed after all.

“So then he says to me ‘You’ll rue the day you messed with The Fallen Prophet!’”
“So that’s when you threw the car at him?”
“Well, I wouldn’t so much call it a throw. It was more like a slam dunk. A friend of mine at the Zigg said he was eating through a straw for a month.”
“Truly an exciting story Dusk, but I believe I will need to wait for another time to hear another one. Our mutual friend has just arrived.”
“Joker! Good to see you made it here in one piece.”
“Thanks Dusk. It’s nice to see you as well. I see Cinaed didn’t require any notice of our meeting.”
“It was made apparent to me that my presence was required here and now. I can only guess that you are ready to meet the man I mentioned the other night.”
“Exactly. Dusk and I have stumbled upon some disturbing news, and I think this friend of yours may be able to help us clear up a few questions.”
“I take it you have found a Garrin Crystal.”
“How did you…?”
“That is not important. It is, however, now crucial that I take you to this man, but I must warn you, he is no friend of mine or my cause.”
“Where to?”
“The Ziggurat.”

The Ziggurat was what the locals dubbed the city’s prison, and as I stole my first glimpse of it through the morning’s fog from the Brickstown train station, I could easily understand why. Towering above the great majority of buildings in this section of the city was a pitch-black monolith in the shape of a tiered pyramid. The massive structure was almost medieval in appearance, and the wide moat of water isolating it from the rest of the city only served to strengthen this image. A series of high chain-link fences stood between the moat and the streets outside the installation. These were topped with the ubiquitous rolls of razor wire so common to such places. Like any other prison, this one was guarded by a series of towers manned by security personnel armed to the teeth, and the overall impression was one of imposing strength and invulnerability.

On my world, prisons were isolated miles from any population center, and the worst of them were often found in the most inhospitable of landscapes. However, here in Paragon the prison was little more than a stone’s throw from the heart of the city. The decision to place such an obviously dangerous facility so near to the heart of the city must not have been made lightly. Criminals the likes of those we had already seen would have been isolated in some god-forsaken hell hole in the middle of nowhere back on World 1, but here the city practically embraced its fallen children.

The security inside the Zigg was even more imposing, and every guard in sight was wearing body armor. They did not appear to holster their weapons, but instead chose to keep them at the ready at all times. Unlike the numerous prisons I have had the opportunity to visit, this one did not require us to relinquish our weapons. The reason why was made readily apparent as we stepped beyond the third checkpoint and into the facility proper.

A loud bang to our right was quickly followed by a number of nefarious looking individuals in what could only be prison issue uniforms. The bright neon orange of their jumpsuits was stamped with the prison’s name, and they were each sporting crudely made weapons. Stealing a glance over their shoulders, I could see 4 guards slowly fading to nothing from the room they were exiting, and I quickly began to draw my sword. I needn’t have bothered for Cinaed’s deep, gravely voice ended the battle before it had a chance to begin.

“You have two choices gentlemen, the easy way or MY way.”

At these words his hands leapt to life, and the heat I had last felt back in the sewers quickly filled the hallway.

“Holy…”
“That’s Cinaed!”

The third just stood there dumbstruck. The pipe he had been carrying clattered to the ground, quickly followed by the weapons of the other two. They had stopped dead in their tracks upon seeing Cinaed, and I must admit that I don’t blame them. If the stories Dusk had been telling me were true, then the prisoners here had a damn good reason to fear his wrath. Their faces looked almost relieved when the emergency response unit finally rounded the corner and hauled them back to whatever hole they’d crawled out of.

The rest of our trip through the maze-like halls of the Zigg’s main level were uneventful. If not for the constant stream of costume clad individuals, the place would seem almost ordinary by prison standards. Countless computer controlled gates divided the hallways into small chunks to allow security to easily divide an out of control mob into workable sizes. Every inch was watched over by numerous cameras, and heavily armed guard stations were set in strategic locations to give the best fields of fire should the need arise.

I was informed by Dusk that our destination lie deep beneath the mountain in an area designated for extremely dangerous inmates. According to her, each cell was specifically designed and equipped for its occupants. Considering that she could probably punch clean through a solid steel door, I can only imagine that there are others with even more formidable abilities, and I was therefore not overly surprised to hear this.

An almost inaudible exhale of surprise escaped the elevator operator’s lips as Cinaed entered the cab. Without a word, the elevator began to descend, rapidly gathering speed. After descending for about 30 seconds, the cab slowed to a halt. As the doors opened I slowly took in the enormous chamber we had arrived at. It was as if someone had taken a giant sphere and cut it in half. At each of the 3 remaining cardinal directions stood a massive metal door with a simple computer terminal built into the nearby wall.

Stepping lightly off of the elevator, Cinaed silently strode across the giant room to the door opposite the elevator. As he approached, the display on the computer terminal to the right of the door came to life. This was followed by an almost human sounding voice.

“Good morning Cinaed. Braonan has been expecting you. I see that you have guests. Please have them step up to my console to be recognized and verified for access.”
“I guess it means us.”
“Ladies first.”
“Accessing…Record found. Dusk comma Shattered registered and verified.”
“You next Joker.”
“Accessing…Record found. Joker comma Desolate registered and verified. I believe Braonan has been expecting you as well.”
“Wonderful. So, are either of you going to tell me who he is before we go in there?”
“I believe that Cinaed is the expert on him. I only know what was in the papers.”
“He is an Angel of Destruction. It is said that even if they serve the Devil, they do so only with the permission of God. Suffice it to say that he did not have permission.”
“Joker, are you buying this God stuff?”
“Dusk, I have seen and experience more unimaginable things than the existence of God. Who am I to confirm or deny that which I do not understand? I can only confirm one thing. The concept of a great creator is not unique to this world. Though the name changes, the essence of the story never does.”
“You are wise, Joker, but rest assured that He DOES exist. He feels the pain of every living soul, and he cries for the children he has lost. My work, our work, is to save this world from itself; one child at a time.”

With that the large metal doors in front of us began to silently pull apart. As they swung inward I could see that they had to be at least 3 feet thick, and I’d have to guess that they weighed tons. Despite the obvious bulk, they moved almost effortlessly out of the way, pulled by unseen and unheard gears hidden in the walls.
The room they opened into was just as breath-taking as the chamber outside. This one, however, was in the shape of a full sphere. The walls looked to be covered in spikes, all pointing toward the exact center of the sphere. The entrance led to a small walkway leading about 20 feet into the mammoth room, and as we made our way to the edge, the doors swung silently closed behind us.

Suspended in the center of the room, as if held by some unseen field, was a large robed figured sitting with his legs crossed. The room was devoid of anything except the figure, and I could only guess that there was indeed some form of gravity or magnet based technology keeping him locked into position. This thought was dispelled a moment later as he stretched his legs beneath him and glided easily to within about ten feet of our position.

“Do not worry. The field surrounding this place keeps me from getting any closer. It is hardly needed considering Cinaed’s presence, but rules are rules.”
“A pity you did not follow them.”
“Yes yes, I know my dear brother. ‘By trying to rule themselves, they broke the rules of God, and thus God cast them out of his kingdom’. We’ve been through this before, but that is not why you are here. I see that you have brought the desolate one with you, but I was not expecting to be visited by such a beauty as this one.”
“We do not have time for such things Braonan. Joker needs to know about the tree.”
“Ah yes. You really should spend more time reading the fascinating works of this world brother. Too much time spent working and you will risk turning into a lifeless shell. Ooops, too late.”

The figure’s laughter suddenly filled the gigantic space. The echoes and reverberations were dizzying at first, but quickly began to fill me with an unidentifiable sense of dread. I could see that Dusk was feeling it too, but Cinaed seemed unperturbed. Seeing that his laughter was having no discernable effect upon the butt of his joke, Braonan quickly refocused on the topic at hand.

“Desolate one, you have touched the tree, but you do not control it. You have climbed its branches, yet you have no sense of which direction you are headed.”
“What tree are you two talking about.”
”Why, Igdrasil of course. The Tree of Existance.”
“But I thought that was merely an explanation of the division between Heaven, Earth, and Hell.”
“Yes and no desolate one. It has been used by less intelligent civilizations to describe those three locations, but it is in fact the same thing as your Dr. Brantiff’s Dimensional Tree. The roots of the tree describe the very essence of existence itself. Innumerable energies and processes went into its birth. I can not begin to describe such a thing, but trust me when I say that it was a marvel to behold.”
“You were there?”
“Why yes Dusk, and I must say that its beauty is but the tiniest of candles compared to the vision of fire I behold in your eyes.”
“Focus Braonan. She is not here to be fawned over.”
“Yes, of course. Joker, you have spent countless lifetimes traveling among the branches of the tree, yet you have no concept of where you’ve been and where you’re headed. The reason why is simple. Igdrasil, like any tree, protects its heart. In order to have complete access to its branches you must uncover both the location and combination of the tree’s trunk. Only then can you fully grasp the intertwining branches and follow them wherever you wish to go. I fear, however, that you are far behind in this task compared to the ones you seek to stop. I sense that you have questions for me. Speak them, desolate one, and I shall endeavor to answer them.”
“Where did this crystal come from?”
”I believe that you already know, but I will help to remind you. Your decision to destroy the facility beneath the island prison resulted in the emergence of another dimensional branch. You have never been back to that world because your travel along the branches has moved you quite some distance away from your World One. However, this new timeline was able to recreate a small amount of the research that you sought to destroy.”
“So they’ve been able to open up their own gateway?”
“Yes, but they were not prepared for the worlds that awaited them. Instead of guarding their methods, they freely spread them amongst the worlds they visited. Where technology would not suffice, magic was used to open the gateways.”
“But that would mean they visited this world as well.”
“Precisely. They came to this world nearly five centuries ago. In order to hide their departure, they sought refuge in the tunnels where you found that crystal. Unfortunately for them, they never fully understood what was required for traveling amongst the worlds, and I fear that they are now adrift among Igdrasil’s branches, just as you are. They are not, however in possession of that remarkable little outfit of yours, so they are destined to die without ever finding their way back.”
“Who is behind the 5th Column’s recent activities?”
“Oh, I believe you know that already as well, even if you haven’t yet come to realize it. My dear, you look flustered and pale. It doesn’t suit you. Perhaps you and I should be given some time alone. I dare say that Cinaed is incapable of such things, and the desolate one’s mind is elsewhere.”
“I think I’ve heard enough.”
“I agree Joker. There is no further need to subject Dusk to his presence.”

The doors began to slowly open once more as if they had been aware of our entire conversation. I was beginning to have a sneaky sensation that the computer terminal was listening in to our little chat, but seeing that neither Cinaed nor Dusk looked the least bit surprised helped to calm my nerves. Braonan’s final words as the doors swung closed, however, dispelled that feeling immediately.

“She is NOT lost desolate one! Can you not hear her words?! Can you not feel the power of her sorrow?! I can hear her crying even now! She cries for the love she has waited lifetimes to see again! DO NOT FAIL IN THIS JOKER, OR EVERYTHING WE HAVE EVER HOPED FOR, EVERYTHING WE HAVE WORKED TO PREPARE FOR, EVERYTHING WE HAVE EVER DREAMED WOULD COME WILL BE LOST!

For those curious, Chapter 8: The Addison Prophecy and Chapter 9: Green Sector were the next two chapter titles.

It's been a bit since I last posted, but that' how this is going to go for a while. I haven't written any more on this story in almost a month, so this thread is quickly catching up to my version. Oh well, here's some more of Chapter 7. Enjoy.


Once again I made my way back to the area known as Kings Row. My research back in the library had told me that this area was once home to a bustling textile industry that had recently fallen on hard times. As always it was isolated from the rest of the city by the towering war walls, but unlike the other areas, it’s aging and decaying factory buildings gave it an ominous feeling. Despite the darkness, the intermittent flashes and explosions of countless battles could be seen dancing about between the shadowy buildings.

The window of my apartment overlooked the local police station, but even here signs of crime were obvious. I could see why the city needed its heroes. The police force was not equipped to handle the likes of the 5th Column or the Circle of Thorns, and the fact that they still persisted in making their rounds was truly awe inspiring. I had seen hardened warriors cower in the face of such powerful enemies, yet here even the average citizen had courage enough to go about their daily lives despite the horrors going on all around them.

What’s the matter Joker?
“Something’s eating at the back of my mind.”
Something to do with the Garrin Crystal?
“Yes. It doesn’t make sense that, in all our travels, this is the first one that we have encountered. I know that these crystals are exceedingly rare, but if there is one of this size here, why has there never been one on any of the other earths?”
As you said, they are quite rare. Perhaps it’s possible that the one we found was brought here from your world as well.
“That thought has already occurred to me, but I am supposedly the only person other than Hergotz’s team to have left our world.”
Is it possible that the gateway was rebuilt following your departure?
“No. The facility would’ve been completely destroyed, along with the entire island. Unless your calculations are way off base, everything within a mile of that slice of hell will be radioactive for another millennium at least.”
And all that talk about a thousand years is as a day equals what?
“A simple exaggeration to prove my point. Don’t even begin to lecture me about the ins and outs of dimensional travel.”
I wouldn’t dream of it. So what are you thinking?
“In my mind, there are only 2 possibilities for how that crystal got there. One, that it has been there for centuries, and the gateway it was keyed to has been long since forgotten by this world. The other option is that the crystal was brought from an alternate dimensional timeline; one that is similar to my own.”
We’ve technically never found another world like your own. This is a very surprising and somewhat disturbing fact.
“I agree. I’ve been wondering if it’s possible that the destruction of the lab somehow lead to another dimension. It’s possible that some person may have escaped the lab’s destruction, and that individual’s death or survival is the difference between the two timelines.”
If that’s true, then this crystal could’ve come from that alternate version of your earth?
“Exactly. If that’s true, then it’s possible that Hergotz has stumbled upon this same line of thought.”
Then you think he’s trying to reach that alternate earth?
“Possibly, but until we have more information we are only guessing.”
I get the feeling that you are still hiding something.
“Let’s just say that I have a couple questions for Cinaed’s contact.”
Then I suggest you get some sleep. Powering down.

Sleep was the last thing I wanted at the moment. It had been centuries since I last dreamed, but this world seemed to be bringing back a lot of old memories; memories I would prefer stayed buried. That’s the thing about dreams. They are never what we truly want to see, but are, more often than not, what we need to see.

Here's a bit more of Chapter 7. I dare say I could probably add a lot more to the explanation, but I am SO enjoying drip feeding it to yall.


“Is that what I think it is?”
“Yes Dusk. An Antikytheran Gateway is what we called the temporal rip between worlds. After speaking with Cinaed earlier, I am now quite certain that this world is no stranger to them. In fact, he not only recognized the name, but was able to give me the name of someone that might be able to help.”
“So the crystal absorbs the energy of transport? Then why is this one full? Does that mean it’s been used recently?”
“I don’t believe so. I believe it is just as I said. The crystal was filled by the ambient magical energy of the Circle’s ceremonies. This world has an incredible amount of magical energy pervading it. In fact, it has the highest mana level I have ever seen. My guess is that the crystal was able to fill much more easily and quickly because of this high level of mana. Magical energy, as I have long since learned, is the most potent form of energy in the entire universe.”
“Okay, then why do the 5th Column want it?”
“I don’t believe the 5th Column actually realize what and who they are dealing with.”
“And exactly who ARE they dealing with.”
“The man Dusk and I encountered in the mine goes by the name of Casimir Hergotz. In short, he’s a bloodthirsty tyrant that I’ve been following since day one. He is the reason that I came to this world.”
“Does he have a suit as well?”
“No, this suit is absolutely one of a kind. It was the only prototype, and the research that helped create it is long since gone. My guess is that Hergotz is attempting to collect materials to help him build another gateway. Chances are he’s using the 5th Column only to get what he wants. He’s probably promised them some sort of power, but knowing him, the instant he has what he wants the Column will become a liability instead of an asset. When that happens, we will undoubtedly know about it.”
“What about the scientist that Starbuck mentioned? Do you know him?”
“That’s a good question Dusk, but the answer is no. I have never seen Hergotz with anyone, so it’s possible that this scientist is simply someone he found on this world with the knowledge he required.”
“You say you’ve been chasing this guy, but what did he do? Was he some sort of criminal on your world?”
“My reasons are my own, and we will leave it at that.”
“Well, I’ve heard enough Joker. I think you and Dusk should stick together on this, and I’ll be sure to inform the City Rep tomorrow of your work. You’ve done quite well for yourself since you arrived here Joker, and I couldn’t think of a better person for this job.”
“I agree with Azuria, Joker, and I want you to know that I will be there to help with whatever you need.”
“Well then, perhaps you two should get some sleep, and try to start fresh in the morning. My only question is what I should do with this crystal.”
“I’ll take care of it, Azuria. My guess is that Hergotz is going to make another attempt on this crystal, and when he does, I’m going to be waiting for him.”

“Well Joker, I have to agree with Azuria. I think we both need rest, especially if we are going to be taking on that friend of yours again. You know…my place is close…”

There was that glint again, and now there was no mistaking it. I must admit that I was intrigued, especially considering what I had seen of her talents, but the suit wasn’t exactly as easy to change as her costume apparently was. Couple that with the fact that it had literally been centuries since my skin had felt the cool air without the benefit of sensors, and chances are I wouldn’t be as much fun as she was hoping. Besides, if I can not give myself mind, body, and soul to a person, then I will not even begin to contemplate such a move.

“Truly, Dusk, I am flattered, and any man in his right mind would happily jump at such an offer. Unfortunately, it has been a VERY long time since I was in my right mind, and I do not wish to spoil such a beautiful smile with my lack of ‘enthusiasm’.”
“Well, just so you know, I don’t make such an offer lightly. In truth, my chosen path has put a severe cramp on that aspect of my life. Despite that suit of yours, I can see that you are an honorable man, and just so you know, the offer will remain on the table.”
“I’ll keep that in mind. If I were ever able to find a way out of this suit, perhaps I would take you up on that offer.”
“I’m sure I could get you out, but there’s no telling what shape it would be in once I did.”

That's the idea. If it was predictable, it'd be boring. To me the story seems bland and rather cliche. The only thing I could think of to spice it up was to take somewhat obscure yet actual items and concepts and twist them to my own ends.

HIGHLY doubtful. I've taken the AM and I'm running my own direction with it. Besides, if all the answers were already out there, what'd be the use of writing the story. Let's just say that there is MUCH more to it than our world would have you believe.


“Yes, yes I have. According to my research, such a device existed centuries ago, but its purpose and design were never described. All that could be understood was that it was supposedly some sort of mechanical calculator for the stars. Beyond that, I’m at a loss.”
“Well, on my world, we actually found one.”
“Are you serious? A discovery like that would be front page news around the world. Everyone from scientists to mystics would kill to see one up close, but how does that fit in to what the 5th Column is working on.”
“Dr. Brantiff theorized that the mechanism was not simply a way of pinpointing the positions of the planets. Through his research, he was able to discover that it was in fact the key that opened the door to universe. It was a combination lock, if you will, that properly used could allow a person or persons to travel between worlds.”
“So that’s how you’re doing it. You have one of these Antikythera thingamajigs built into your suit.”
“No, my suit IS an Antikythera Mechanism.”
“You’re kidding!”
“No, I’m not, but there is more that you must know before you can completely understand.”
“Alright, go on.”
“The Antikythera Mechanism that was found on my world was dated to more than 2000 years old. Brantiff believed it to be in fact only a little over a hundred. Of course, he was labeled a lunatic, but he had his reasons. According to him, the mechanism was aged prematurely by the forces it is subjected to when used to cross worlds. You see, in order to travel between worlds with drastically different timelines and histories, you must first remove yourself from time itself. You see, one year here might equal a thousand back on my world, or it may be no more than a day.”
“I thought time was constant.”
“It is, within each world. Why do think the bible says ‘a day is as a thousand years and a thousand years are as one day’? It is referring to this branching of time. I have seen countless amounts of evidence to suggest that the concept of traveling between worlds is not a new one, and the crystal we found in the mine is another sure sign.”
“What do you mean?”
“Brantiff theorized that anything or anyone traveling between worlds would be subjected to the exact same forces as the Antikythera Mechanism. Because of this, there was no telling what would happen to an unprotected individual making such a trip. When Garrin’s discovery of these crystals went public, Brantiff realized what they might be able to do. He figured that time, or the passage of it at least, was nothing more than another form of energy. If this was true, then a properly rigged Garrin Crystal of sufficient size could be used to absorb this energy and protect the user.”
“And did it work?”
“Yes, otherwise I would be a pile of dust right now.”
“So how does this fit with the mine?”
“The crystal I found was inserted into the middle of a carved section of wood along one of the beams in the mine. The carving was in a shape reminiscent of a design I would recognize as meaning ‘tree’. It isn’t exact, but it’s close enough for me to jump to this conclusion. That mine was used, at some point, as the focal point for an Antikytheran Gateway.”

Okay, it's been a long weekend so far, so I've decided to post something to help lift my spirits. This is the beginning to Chapter 7. Pay attention folks cause a lot goes down in the next few chapters.


Chapter 7: Igdrasil

“If I must destroy existence to have you, then know that I do so not out of love but because I am afraid to exist without you by my side.”

“For starters, I am not from this world. No, I’m not an alien. I’m what has been referred to as a ‘traveler’. I have come into possession of a method to transport myself between realities. According to my research last night in the library, this world has a similar technology.”
“Portal Corps.”
“That’s right Dusk. The difference is this; I do not require rooms full of machinery to enable me to jump to another world. All that I need is contained within this suit that I’m wearing.”
“That suit let’s you travel between dimensions?”
“Yes. I can’t even begin to comprehend the science that went into its creation, but I can verify that EVERYTHING they hypothesized is true. In fact, there are a number of things they never imagined could happen that have come about as a direct result of my wearing this suit. I’m not going to bother you with those details, however, because it is now clear to me that we are on borrowed time.”
“This has to do with this crystal, correct?”
“Yes Azuria. As I have told Dusk, those crystals hold a power the likes of which you could not begin to fathom. The gem you showed me a picture of earlier could easily power this entire city for a decade once full. The one we found down in the mine IS full, or close to it, and the energy trapped inside it could probably jump start a sun.”
“I’ve never seen anything contain so much magical energy.”
“It’s not magical energy. Let me explain. The crystals act as batteries, slowly absorbing excess ambient energy. Depending on their access to such ‘loose’ energy, it can take years to fully charge even the smallest of crystals. However, my guess is that this crystal’s proximity to the Circle of Thorns rituals allowed it to feed off of their magical energy. Therefore, the reason you sense this crystal as magical is because of the type of energy it absorbed. To it, energy is energy. With the proper equipment, that crystal could easily be used for anything.”
“What were they used for back on your world?”
“The military was pretty much the sole possessor of such things, considering how valuable they are, and they used them to replace things like nuclear drives for ships and fuel cells for tanks. In short, the military saw them only as a way to increase the strength of their arsenal. Other organizations were rumored to be using minute samples as conductors in super computers.”
“That’s typical.”
“I agree with you Dusk, but there really wasn’t much that could be done.”
“Back in the mine, you were about to tell me of another use just before we were so rudely interrupted.”
“Yes, a scientist by the name of Dr. Donald Brantiff theorized that they were the missing piece of an equation he had been working on for years.”
“Hmm, what sort of equation?”
“Well, Azuria, have you ever heard of the Antikythera Mechanism?”

I figured since the contest is over that I would post my competition entry. Obviously it didn't win(no surprise there), but half the fun of writing is seeing the reactions of your readers. So, without further ado...

The Babbage Incident

"We now go live to Judy Cairns with an eye witness account of today's exciting battle."

"Thank you Dean. I'm here with Mrs. Eileen Baker, an eye witness to the titanic struggle that took place mere moments ago. So tell us what you saw."
"Well, there I was on my way to the station like every other morning, when I heard this awful racket coming from up on the overpass. Looking up I saw a massive explosion that knocked me to the ground."
"What happened then?"
"Well, the next thing I knew the sun was suddenly blotted out as this enormous metal contraption came hurtling down onto the station's roof. I couldn't even get to my feet the ground was shaking so much."
"And that's when you saw the hero?"
"Yes, he was dressed all in orange, with a hood that covered most of his face. He was throwing what looked like balls of fire at the metal beast. He was just hovering there raining fire on the thing from near the overpass."
"Police reports have confirmed this hero to be none other than Cinaed. Our viewers will also remember him as the hero that took out Dr. Vahzilok with the aid of an as yet unidentified sword wielder. So Mrs. Baker, did the battle continue like this?"
"Oh no ma'am, the giant metal beast..."
"Identified as The Babbage."
"err right, The Babbage let out this high-pitched metallic scream and leapt onto the platform. I was dumbstruck by this and could only watch as he stormed into the loading area. Moments later dozens of people, as well as quite a few in costumes, came barreling out in a mad rush to escape."
"So what did Cinaed do then?"
"Well, the hero said something I couldn't quite make out, and then dove straight toward the station. I lost him for a moment behind the large map, but I could hear the sounds of fighting. A minute later, the hero...err...Cinaed came walking back out dragging The Babbage."
"That's right folks, Cinaed single handedly took out The Babbage INSIDE the Skyway tram station. Our news chopper was just in time to capture the vanquished behemoth being dragged out by Cinaed, much to the joy of the local citizenry. Known as a hero of few words, our precision microphone captured this remark before he flew away to fight the good fight."

"And you shall be no more than a leaf on the breath of God."

“Dean.”
“Thanks Judy, truly an amazing turn of events, huh Carla?”
“You’ve got that right Dean. Now let’s turn to Barry Sprinkles for tomorrow’s weather. Barry?”

Nice guess, wrong, but nice. I now present the end of Chapter 6. Be sure to look for Chapter 7 in the near future.


“Dusk, where’d he go?!”
“He teleported away when you turned your head.”
“I’ve never seen him do that before.”
“I’ve never seen a Column boss do that either. Something’s strange about him.”

If nothing else, we had prevented them from recovering the crystal, and that means he would try for it again. I was quiet during our trip back to Atlas Park, but Dusk was still showing signs of the rush of combat. By the time we reached the doors of City Hall, she had related to me almost every kick and punch of her fight, and was dying to hear of my own battle. Apparently she had never seen a style like my own, and she was curious to learn more about it, among other things.

The halls of the building were dimmed to mirror the night, and the normally busy offices were now empty. The noises of the machine were momentarily silent, and the only other person apart from us was the night-time security guard making his rounds. Buildings like these always struck me as unnatural without the normal throngs of people going about their day. As we made our way deeper into the building, it was apparent that we weren’t the only ones, however, that were making some late night deliveries.

A few lights still burned in the offices of ELITE, which I’ve been told is where heroes that gained their powers through natural means are assigned. According to Dusk, there was almost always someone stationed there, since the 5th Column, one of their biggest adversaries, tended to do a lot of their work at night. This made sense, especially considering what we were returning from, but it did leave me curious as to why no one from their office was brought in on our meeting earlier. I could only guess that Starbuck was somehow affiliated with ELITE, and that his presence was more than enough for our purposes.

“So, were you two able to find anything?”
“We found plenty, Azuria. Joker located another of those crystals, and we had a little run in with a group of 5th Column.”
“Yes, apparently we got there just in time. I wouldn’t want them getting their hands on this.”

With that, I produced the crystal for Azuria to examine. The moment her hand touched it her face lit up like kid in a candy store. I was suddenly aware that despite her reserved manner and professional appearance, she still got excited when confronted with an unknown piece of supposedly magical design. This piece, however, was undoubtedly more powerful than anything she had ever encountered, because she was quick to place it back on the table.

“Okay Joker, it’s time you explain what you know about these things.”
“I agree with Azuria. You seem to be the key to this little mystery, and that strange 5th Column boss apparently recognized you.”
“What boss Dusk?”
“Back in the mine, the Column flunkies were being led by a 5th Column boss that could teleport.”
“Teleport? That doesn’t sound like 5th Column standard issue equipment, even for their bosses.”
“It’s not. In all my time fighting them, I’ve never once seen that type of technology used.”
“Well Joker, can you explain it?”
“I will try, but I’d suggest you all get comfortable. It’s something of a long story.”

I'd like to see the damage on sniper attacks be increased dramatically. They have a HUGE interupt time, can be interupted by a stiff breeze, and might take half the HPs of a mob at higher levels. They should utterly obliterate a minion and leave an LT with maybe 25% left.

Then again, I'd love to see a 10th power that is one of those massive single wide line beam type shots that hits everything in it's path.

My 2 influence on blasters: Keep in mind I have only gotten one to the low 30s so I can't speak about the upper levels beyond the effects while SKed.

#1 - Range is WAY too short. This has been said, but when Sky Raiders(first met in the 20s) outrange your snipe with their burst attacks it's pathetic. This forces you to close or fighting a runnng battle the entire time.

#2 - Melee based Secondary. Secondaries filled with melee attacks doesn't fit into my view of a ranged fighter. Heck, Fire Manipulation out right sucks, and the few people that take more than 3 or 4 powers from it quickly learn just how useless it is.

#3 - NO protection. We have to rely on power pools to give us any form of protection, yet we are forced to draw massive amounts of aggro just by doing our jobs. This means that we either hit one guy at a time with our pidly little attacks, or risk debt on a constant basis with AoEs.

#4 - Seemingly useless at higher levels. This is more from hearsay than actual experience, but I rarely see blasters in the 40s, but I see TONS of scrappers. Either people have just given up do to the effects of the choice in #3 above, or they just aren't ever asked to very many teams.

Now my ideas: Keep in mind these are just ideas, so feel free to run with them or shoot em down.

#1 - MASSIVE range increase for, at the very least, the snipes.

#2 - I'd love to see a more controller feel for the blaster secondaries. Buildups could replace any of the 'too powerful' controller powers, and remember to keep #1 in mind for these.

#3 - How about Blaster Secondaries have some form of mez/hold protection as the lvl 38 power. Even if it only absorbs say 2 holds, it will keep us from being punching bags against all the mezzers at higher levels.

#4 - Damage increase is obvious. If you don't like the idea of changing the caps, the fix the Base. Remember, scrappers have the ability to effectively double their damage at times, and this gets even easier as they fight higher ranking baddies.

#5 - Along with #4. How about a reverse type of critical where blasters get an increased chance of doing double damage the lower the rank. This would make a lot of sense to me since I see blasters in the role of 'equalizer' as opposed to the 'boss killer' role of scrappers. This means scrappers focus on bosses and AVs while scrappers balance against overwhelming numbers.

#6 - Just my deepest wish, but how about a SINGLE pet power for blasters. I'm not talking a dozen imps, but how about being able to summon a single minion level Warwolf, Behemoth, Snowman(woohoo winter event) etc. I know this is wishful thinking, but it would give us blasters a front line to stand behind.

Teehee. I'm not telling, but it isn't what you'd think. You'll start getting some hints at the level of the other characters as well. However, you're more than welcome to speculate.

Time for some action. Here's a little more of Chapter 6, and I should be able to post the conclusion to it with my next post.


“What’d you find?”
“Another crystal, only this one’s a lot bigger.”
“It’s beautiful. What are they used for?”
“I’m no scientist, Dusk, but where I’m from, these crystals were far too valuable to be left behind in some abandoned mine. Their original design was created for use in batteries, but they were so incredibly powerful that the government stepped in to protect their existence. It didn’t take long for scientists to realize what Garrin had stumbled upon, and he was hailed as a genius for his work. Their creation requires massive amounts of highly dangerous chemicals that were never meant to be combined. Countless people have lost their lives trying to recreate Garrin’s research, enough people for the government to imprison anyone attempting to follow in his footsteps.”
“But what do they do?”
“In short, they are the strongest most reliable batteries ever created, though they were occasionally used as conductors due to the absolutely miniscule amount of energy lost in transfer. Like most things, however, their true power was only discovered by accident.”
“What happened?”
“Basically, a top secret research facility screwed up during a creation test. They were attempting to use an existing crystal as a sort of catalyst for the reaction, hoping that new crystals would bond to it more easily. Of course they were wrong, and 837 people paid the price. What they hadn’t counted on was how much energy the crystals could actually hold. The only person to survive the explosion was a technician cataloguing the current supply of crystals. Everything within 2 miles was turned to dust except this one technician and the Garrin Crystals he was counting. It was proposed that the sheer number surrounding him was enough to absorb the energy that would have killed him.”
“Wow, that’s lucky.”
“Through the investigation of the explosion they discovered that the Garrin Crystals are the strongest substance man has ever found. They are damn near indestructible, making them perfect for use by the military as fuel cells for their equipment.”
“So what’s one doing here?”
“Truth is, I can only speculate, but it’s not a good sign, especially to find one this big. You see, one other use was discovered for them, they are…”
Joker, someone’s coming.
“What is it Joker?”
“Shh, someone’s coming.”

“said the idiots at MAGI must’ve missed something. Spread out and search every inch.”
”What are we looking for sir?”
“You are looking for a crystal, sergeant. I want some people looking up as well. Chances are you aren’t going to find it just lying around.”

“That doesn’t sound good Joker. What do we do?”
“Judging by the amount of firepower they’ve got, we’d be better off in hand-to-hand.”
“I like the way you think.”
“Leave the leader to me. Do what you want with the rest.”

Are you sure we can take him this time Joker? Most of my systems are still offline.
“You think I care?”

There are two lessons that I’ve learned over the years when dealing with large groups of people. Number one, it is extremely rare that the group is trained to fight as a cohesive unit against a single opponent. In their rush to attack they will often get in each other’s way, and a single determined individual can inflict massive casualties with very little effort. The second lesson is that if the group is in fact trained to fight together, then you’re in for a very bad day. Luckily for us, the group below tended to obey the first of these rules.

Shattered Dusk was more than happy to lead the charge. With barely a thought, she had dropped from her sitting position and into their midst, drawing the room’s attention instantly. I, on the other hand, decided to hang back until I caught sight of my quarry. It only took him a moment to get involved; looks like little has changed. Confident that Dusk could take care of herself, I quickly unsheathed my weapon and zeroed in on my old friend.

Unlike Dusk, I prefer not to announce my presence until after I’ve made my move. With the room’s attention stilled focused squarely on the whirling melee she had started, I dropped from my perch intent on splitting my opponent in half before he had a chance to react. With a near invisible move of his hand, his guard was up, and my sword caught squarely on the armored forearm he had thrown in the way.

“That all you’ve got Joker?!”

A spinning kick caught me squarely in the chest before my feet even touched the ground, knocking me nearly 15 feet across the room. By rolling on impact I was able to avoid any serious injury, and ending the roll in a neat runner’s stance allowed me to launch myself back toward my opponent with renewed vigor. Once again he was ready for me, and neatly parried my strike with the back of his hand.

“What’s wrong Joker? You seem sluggish. Typically you’ve at least gotten close to hitting me by now.”

At this he lashed out with his left hand, but I had seen this coming and was able dodge it easily. For the next couple minutes the fight was a draw. Neither of us could find any purchase, and our attacks seemed almost useless. He was always one of the best martial artists I knew, and I was having trouble keeping up with him. My only advantage was my sword. Unfortunately, he knew me too well to allow me even the smallest holes in his guard.

The stalemate was broken by the limp body of a 5th Column soldier being tossed through our melee. Following close behind it was Shattered Dusk. Her whole body seemed to glow with the adrenaline and sweat of combat, and for a moment my attention was draw to the crumpled forms of more than a dozen men scattered about the cavern. My moment of distraction was all that was needed, and when I returned my gaze to my opponent, I realized he was no where to be seen. His laughter, however, still echoed around the cavern making my blood boil.

Little more of Chapter 6. All these open RP threads keep pushing my thread outta view. Maybe I should start posting one paragraph every few hours. That should keep me poised at the top. We shall see. Oh yes, we shall see.


Joker, I hate to break up your little story hour, but something’s not right about this place.
“Explain.”
There are weird energy fluctuations.
“Does it have something to do with the mana level?”
Yes and no. The mana level is unchanged, but it’s as if it is focusing and unfocusing rapidly. I think there is something not related to the mana level that’s causing it.
“Does it pose a danger to us?”
That has yet to be seen, but the fluctuation has been constant since we entered this place.
“Well, keep me informed if anything changes.”

After descending for about 10 minutes, the mine shaft began to level out. In truth, the shaft looked more like a cave considering the almost complete lack of braces and supports. My guess is that the actual mine didn’t start until deeper in, but it was strange that there was no trace of mining equipment. The reasons for this became clear as we continued further along the shaft.

About 100 yards after the slope had leveled out, the narrow passage opened up into an enormous room. Aged wooden columns lined with metal stretched off into the shadows above. Even the light provided by my rings was unable to reach to the ceiling of this massive enclosure. The whistle issuing from Shattered Dusk’s lips informed me that she was just as impressed as I was.

“Quite a place, eh Joker?”
“Indeed. I hadn’t realized the path was so steeply sloped. We must be at least a couple hundred feet beneath the park.”
237 feet and 8 inches…approximately.
“Well Joker, now that we’re here, what’s the plan?”
We are close to the focal point of the fluctuation. I place it at about 30 feet above our heads.
“Now, we climb. I’m thinking that what I’m looking for is around three stories up.”
“Wonderful, see you there.”

With another sly smile, she was off. In one smooth jump, her powerful legs carried her the entire vertical distance. With little more than a flick of her wrist she had grabbed one of the beams and swung herself around to a sitting position looking down at me. There was no doubt that she was full of surprises, and I must say I was a bit envious considering the climb that now confronted me.

Though I made the ascent without too much effort, it was no where near as graceful as Dusk’s, and once again, seeing the small glint in her eye gave me pause. Once I had gained my footing on one of the horizontal beams, I scanned the area for some sign of what was causing the mana fluctuation.

Joker, there!

I had seen it too. Absentmindedly setting the optics to record, I made my way carefully across the pair of beams between me and it. Carved into the side of one of the vertical beams was an intricate design that reminded me of a small tribe of mystics I had once encountered back on World 328. Legend had it that their tribe had traveled there centuries before, but had since been cut off from their home. According to their record keeper, if my memory serves me correctly, the design I was now staring at meant ‘tree’.

As eerie as this site was, what was lodged in the center of the design was even more interesting. There in the focal point of the design was another Garrin Crystal. Pulling it free, however, I discovered that it was not actually shaped like a gem. Instead it was a long cylinder that reached almost entirely through the wood of the beam. The energy contained within it was impossible to overlook, and despite the chill of the cavern it was hot to the touch.

Catching up to my current point rather quickly now. It won't be long before I can't post every day like this. I've just completed Chapter 9 so we still have a bit of a ways to go, but I can still foresee a day that this thread and my work are at the same point. Dang you ily. Oh well, I guess I AM partly to blame. Here's the beginning to Chapter 6 and as befits where we left off it won't be long before we dive into some more action so keep your eyes peeled.


Chapter 6: Old Enemies

“I will promise you a day of reckoning that you will not live long enough to never forget.”

“Alright Joker, the entrance to the mine should be just up ahead. Hopefully no one was foolish enough to move in after the Thorns left.”
”Any idea WHY the Thorns abandoned this place.”
“Not at all, but the Circle of Thorns has never been predictable. Ah, here we are.”

The entrance to the mine was a small boarded up hole in an outcropping of rocks. The faded sign warning passersby of danger hung limply off a rusted nail, and I couldn’t help but wonder if anyone had ever bothered to heed its warning. Without the slightest bit of effort, my partner removed the boards covering the entrance, and we began our descent into the gloom.

“Did you happen to bring a flashlight Joker? I hate caves.”
“Flashlights are overrated, but since I can’t have you stumbling around in the dark…”

Reaching into a pouch on my belt, I retrieved a pair of non-descript gold rings. I had picked them up ages ago, and typically only used them for the sake of others. None the less, they did hold a bit of sentimental value. The simple gold band of each ring was broken in one small section by a band of silver. I can’t even begin to contemplate how such things were created, but the small bands of silver were imbued with some sort of constant light spell. They had been specifically made to fit over my gloves.

The constant light spell is just what it sounds like, constant. There is no switch. Since I didn’t like the prospect of being unable to turn them off, I had asked their creator to imbue only a tiny section of the rings so that I could simply spin that section into my palm and close my fist to extinguish the light. Believe it or not, this plan worked wonderfully, but at the moment light was what we needed most.

The darkness of the mineshaft was gone in an instant, but that strange twinkle in Dusk’s eye was back. It was beginning to become clear that she had something on her mind, and that I was directly involved. Not wanting to linger upon exactly what that might be, I took the initiative and began the long descent into the mine. A moment or two later I heard Dusk’s footsteps behind my own.

“That’s a neat trick.”
“No trick, merely treats.”
“So you didn’t create those?”
“I wouldn’t even know where to begin. They were a gift for services rendered.”
“What…type of services?”
“Quite a while back I happened upon a group of individuals, slaves actually, that related to me an amazing tale of intrigue, espionage, betrayal and revenge. In short, I was the revenge part.”
“I see, so you helped these slaves gain their freedom?”
“No, they all died not long after our meeting, but their story stuck with me. In the end, however, their deaths served to inspire others. They became martyrs, and I became a hero. These rings are 2 of a set of 8 gifted to me by those individual’s successors. Each one has its uses, and each one holds a special place in my memories.”
“Wow, that’s amazing.”
“No, it is sad, because the fate that awaited them was far worse than you can possibly imagine.”

Here's the end to Chapter 5. I hope yall are still enjoying it. Anyone confused yet?


She talked a good game, but talk is cheap. When the [censored] hits the fan I needed to know what to expect, and the sly smile she shot me before trotting off towards the tree line told me plenty. The strange glint in her eye, however, was a little more difficult to read. Not wanting to fall too far behind while I pondered this, I quickly followed my would-be tour guide into the trees.

The darkness of the woods seemed to swallow the world whole, and if not for the night-vision built into my mask I would have been as blind as a bat. My guide, on the other hand, seemed quite at home. As I picked my way along the path, stumbling on outstretched roots and the occasional hole, I slowly became aware of a faint light emanating from the surrounding trees. It seemed almost without source, yet it was easily growing stronger as we continued deeper into the woods.

“What’s that strange light?”
“That light is coming from a Circle of Thorns ceremony. It’s somewhere up ahead, and my guess is we’re going to need to go through it to reach our destination.”
“What makes you think th…”

Of course, she was right on the money. The words had barely left her lips when a small group of hooded figures came into view. About twenty yards in front of us, along the crude path we had been following, were 5 individuals surrounding a strange column of green smoke. Just as I was about to draw my sword, Shattered Dusk charged.

“Darkness falls gentlemen!”

The men were obviously prepared for a fight. Dusk was still ten yards away when the first figure fired. It was the second crossbow I had seen since I got here, but this one didn’t have quite the same effect. Ducking a split second before impact, the bolt hit home near Dusk’s shoulder instead of her heart, but this didn’t seem to slow her charge in the least. The rest of the group were drawing wickedly curved blades instead of crossbows. Figuring I’d best step in to help, I began to close the distance between myself and the fray.

I needn’t have bothered. In the time it took me to cover the 20 yards the fight was over. One figure was crumpled in a heap about 20 feet into the trees. Two more were wearing their swords. A fourth had left his face on a nearby tree, and the fifth guy was leaning against a stump, cradling a badly mangled arm. The crossbow he had dared to fire at Shattered Dusk lay in pieces to his side. I seriously doubted this guy would ever be able to use a pen again, let alone fire a crossbow, even though there was no evidence that the bolt he had fired had actually made contact. The skin of her shoulder was just as smooth as when she broke my concentration back at the gate.

“These guys are nothing but foot soldiers. The lead mages only bother when there’s a victim to sacrifice. None the less, I enjoyed the warm-up.”

Warm-up? She hadn’t even broken a sweat. I guess she wasn’t just being playful about that pickle jar.

Thanks all! Too bad I didn't get nominated. Maybe next year. Anyways, here's the next tiny installment. Trust me, there's more combat to come, as well as many more cliffhangers.


******

It didn’t take me long to realize that Ms. Casey, was an old hand at this game. Before excusing herself from the meeting, she agreed to meet me at the imposing gate to a section of the city called Perez Park. I was informed, before leaving, that the entrance into the park required special clearance. According to Azuria, however, my survival of Doctor Vahzilok’s lair was more than enough for her to reward me access. This promotion came with the now expected clearing of numerous combat protocols, and only helped to strengthen my belief that I had at least discovered the cure for the system glitches, if not the source.

How does this fit in Joker? I’m not comprehending this situation.
“I’m a bit confused as well. Garrin Crystals were the absolute peak of technology back on World 1, and I have never seen their equal in all my travels. Beyond their near indestructibility, they are almost perfect conductors.”
Yes, I believe Doctor Brantiff said that it took Garrin nearly a year of testing to place the decimal point for the energy loss, but that doesn’t explain why we’ve suddenly encountered one after all this time.

“So, you ready to rock?”

My reverie was suddenly broken by the soothing voice of Dusk in my ear. Once again my ponderings of recent events had allowed someone to sneak well within my threat range, but I must admit that her presence wasn’t exactly unwelcome. I suddenly realized exactly why she had excused herself back in Azuria’s office, and I must say I’m glad she had.

The smart business suit and skirt had been replaced by form fitting leather practically painted onto her ample form. Her liquid hair had been pulled back into a ponytail hanging almost to her waist, and the simple glasses were nowhere in sight. The dark blue leather mirrored her eyes, and the bright orange of her hair could be seen on both her gloves and boots. All together, the vision I had seen in the office as professional and reserved now appeared to be barely able to contain her exuberance.

Azuria had told me that the park was a dangerous place even in the daytime, but Dusk appeared unimpressed even as the sun made its curtain call behind the trees towering to the west. From what I gathered during my stay at the library the night before, this area was once a thriving business district, but had recently fallen beneath the mud stained boots of the local gangs. The businesses still clung to their offices as a refuge from the violence on the streets, but the gangs were becoming increasingly malicious in their attempts to control the territory. All in all, the area was powder keg just waiting for the right match.

“Don’t worry Joker, I grew up in an apartment building overlooking this park. I know every nook and cranny, and the locals know better than to start anything with me. Still, you’d best stay close, just to be safe.”
”Will do. So tell me, are you a magic user as well? I don’t see any weapons on you.”
“God no. Let’s just say I gained my reputation by bending the old Skulls boss into a knot.”
“Wonderful. I guess I know who to come to if I ever need a jar of pickles opened.”
“Not if you want them to go in the right end you don’t, and trust me, I don’t need to take them outta the jar to make that happen.”
“Perhaps we should get started.”
“That’s what I thought.”

We shall see ilyrya, we shall see. As for the story, here's some more of Chapter 5. Enjoy!


“Joker, I’d like to introduce you to Willy Starbuck…”

The young and somehow forgotten man on my right.

“…and to Ms. Evelyn Casey.”

The vision on my left.

“I’d like to start by explaining to everyone present exactly why I asked you all here, but first let me explain where everyone’s talents lie. Mr. Starbuck is one of a handful of locals with a working knowledge of the 5th Column’s current schemes. Ms. Casey, as you may have guessed, moonlights as a hero by the name of Shattered Dusk, and she has quite a bit of experience in dealing with the 5th Column.”
“So I take it you have found something out about that mysterious Column soldier I put in the hospital?”
“Yes. Ms. Casey, Mr. Starbuck. This is Desolate Joker. He’s the one I told you about.”
“Well well. I heard about that piece of work you and Cinaed did on Dr. Vahzilok. He’s lucky I never got MY hands on him though.”
“I wouldn’t be so sure. Cinaed made quite sure that he will never bother this city’s people again.”
“Yes, he has quite the reputation for…rehabilitating criminals. I believe the Ziggurat has an entire wing dedicated to his work. I’m told that even the soundproof walls are hardly enough to silence them.”
“Lady, gentlemen, please. There is no telling how far behind we are, and I fear that we may all be in grave danger. Willy, if you would?”

“Alright, here’s what I’ve got. Two weeks ago there was something of a minor upsurge in the Column’s activity surrounding their ongoing search for mystical objects. This upsurge corresponded with the recruitment of a number of unknown individuals into the upper ranks of the Column’s leadership. Rumor has it that these individuals were accompanied by a scientist or doctor of some sort. However, unlike what is typical of the Column’s handling of their existing scientific staff, this individual was basically given the royal treatment.”
“Any ideas on who this guy is?”
“Not even the slightest, but here’s the kicker. Yesterday an order was sent down the ranks to begin some sort of massive supply relocation. At the same time, that minor upsurge stopped immediately. All plans, present and future, were put on indefinite hold. In short, they’ve found what they are looking for, and now they are waiting.
“What they are waiting for is why I brought you here Ms. Casey.”
”Exactly. As Azuria has said, I have no small amount of experience dealing with these fascists, but what I ran into yesterday came as quite a shock. I have never seen the 5th Column stop an assault once it has begun. However, yesterday I saw just that.”
“Now, Joker, the thing that’s so strange about this is that the assault stopped about 30 seconds before your little flaming punching bag arrived in the Zigg’s infirmary. I told you I thought it was strange, and now we know why.”
“If I’m following this all correctly, then that means the jewel the gangers mentioned was probably what the 5th Column were looking for.”
“Precisely.”
“But what kind of jewel is it? I’m guessing it’s no ordinary pawn shop piece.”
“And you’d be right. My sources within the Column are concerned about its discovery. Apparently a large number of people were upset about the amount of manpower dedicated to its retrieval. They have no idea why so much effort was wasted on a simple magical artifact.”
”Right, according to my research, the jewel in question is of little magical significance. It was actually no more than a small bauble recovered from the remains of an abandoned section of caves once used by the Circle of Thorns.”
”Well, then, your research has missed something. Can you at least describe the jewel to me?”
“I can do better than that.”

The stack of photographs contained very little of actual use. The cave system depicted in them looked, at first glance, to be little more than an abandoned section of an old mine. If you’ve seen one mine, you’ve seen them all. The jewel, though, caught my eye.

Is that what I think it is?
“Yes.”

“Can you take me to this cave?”
“What is it Joker?”
“That’s no jewel, but I wouldn’t expect a mage to fully understand.”
“You’re right, I don’t. We examined the jewel, and beyond its near perfect cut, it was unremarkable. The little magic in it was undoubtedly a mere residue left by the Circle. If they left it behind, I can’t see of what use it could be to the Column. If it’s not a jewel, then what is it?”
”The item in this picture… is a Garrin Crystal.”

I'm back with another post. Come on people. Tell me what you REALLY think. Throw out some ideas for what's going on. Try to guess the next move. It's like friggin library in here.


The late afternoon sun was beginning to fall behind the western wall by the time I made my way in to Azuria’s office. The journey from my apartment hadn’t gone entirely without notice by the local inhabitants, but I can only hope that the city’s teleportation grid was as reliable as I had been made to believe. Otherwise, the city’s graveyard was about to find itself overwhelmed.

Azuria’s office was more akin to that of a lawyer than a supposed witch. Shelves upon shelves of books lined the walls, save for the area directly behind her desk. This space was dominated by a floor to ceiling window filled with frosted glass. A lingering essence of sage, however, dispelled the comparison to a simple law office immediately.

My first reaction upon stepping into Azuria’s office was that this meeting was not to be, as I had originally thought, one-on-one. Instead, two of the three chairs facing Azuria’s own were already occupied. Figuring it best to conceal my curiosity, I quickly dropped into the remaining seat, and awaited the explanation for these strangers’ presence.

To my right sat a young man in a dark windbreaker. His lack of distinguishing features could almost be considered an asset. In a city filled to overflowing with weirdos in brightly colored spandex, his clean-cut and simple persona was all too easy to overlook. The young woman on my left, however, was anything but.

My first impression was that of fire. I had seen, and felt, too much of it in the last day to be truly convinced, but the vivid red hair cascading gently off her shoulders reminded me of the hellish rain I had witnessed only hours before. Nodding in my direction as I sat down afforded me a perfect view of her face. Framed beautifully by her laser straight red hair, her face seemed at once both confident and demure.

Set behind a simple yet elegant pair of glasses, her vivid blue eyes locked at once upon my own. In that instant I could sense the strength of her resolve, and I knew at once that she was no stranger to the rigors and pains of combat. Though my own eyes have been hidden for longer than I care to remember, I felt sure that she was somehow able to penetrate the technology to what little remains of the man beneath. Her gaze was captivating, to say the least, but I have long since become immune to the baser desires of our species. Though I can honestly say she is one of the most beautiful creatures I have ever rested my eyes upon, her presence was bringing back far too many painful memories.

Tearing myself away from her hypnotic stare allowed me to take in the rest of her. A neatly tailored business suit hung in all the right ways, and was completed by a pair of the strongest, yet smoothest legs I can remember. At once she struck me as a pure professional, and I have little doubt that just such a thought was her intended goal. In short, she was stunning, breath-taking even, but then again, I’ve always had a thing for redheads.

Alrighty, I've been ragged on for my cliffhanger posts, so I'll post a little more on this go round. I can't promise a non-cliffhanger till the end of the whole kit and kaboodle though. More of Chapter 5. DISCUSS.


“So, apparently you’ve outlived your usefulness as well.”
“What do you know of it Brantiff?”
“I know that she isn’t lost…yet. However, your time is definitely running out.”
“What do you mean?”
“Did you ever read my book? You know, the one they never let me publish?”
“I tried, but I didn’t understand it. There was too much scientific mumbo jumbo, and she was always too busy to explain it.”
“Then perhaps I should start at the beginning, especially since we will undoubtedly be spending quite some time together.”
“If it means finding a way to save her, then I will listen to what you’ve got to say.”
“Excellent. First you must understand this simple fact. This world is not the only one in existence. There are in fact a multitude of worlds, each separated by the choices made in their combined histories. Every choice we make creates a branch in the dimensional tree. As the tree grows forward through time, it continues to branch out.”
“This part I understood. That means there are basically infinite worlds, each separated by some small decision. That means that as you go back in time, the worlds become more and more similar.”
“Correct, but there are not, in fact, infinite worlds. In truth, the number of worlds is VERY finite. You see, just like a real tree, the dimensional tree can only support so many timelines at once. Inevitably, certain decisions will lead directly to the complete and utter destruction of a world, and thus, every world further along the dimensional tree. You see, it is just like a real tree. If part of the tree dies, then everything that stems from that point dies as well. We are all slaves to our history, Joker.”
“So you’re telling me that there aren’t infinite earths?”
“Yes. You see, not every choice warrants a new earth. Whether you put 2 sugars or 3 in your coffee this morning isn’t earth shattering enough. The choices have to be monumental.”
”Like the dropping of the atomic bombs at the end of World War Two?”
“Exactly. There are undoubtedly other earths where those bombs never left the planes. The planes could’ve been shot down, the bombs may have malfunctioned, or the decision to drop them was just never made.”
“So how do you know what will and won’t create new earths?”
“You don’t. It’s just that simple. ANY choice can become monumental if made under the right, or wrong, circumstances.”
“Okay, I think I got that part. What’s next?”

“Next comes the gateways.”
“The Antikytheran Gateway?”
“Yes, but there are more than just one; many more in fact. Each connects its earth to the trunk of the tree.”
“So, if I follow this correctly, the gateways are all interconnected?”
“Precisely. Therefore, you can get to ANY world from ANY other, as long as that world’s gateway has not been disabled.”
“And exactly how is one of these gateways disabled.”
“You need a key.”
“Right. I remember you mentioning that the Antikythera Mechanism was the key, but isn’t it too old to be used.”
“It IS a key, but as I was trying to tell my colleagues before your sergeant and his squad so rudely interrupted, the key is not ancient. The key was aged by its trips across worlds. I have a theory on how to prevent this, but unfortunately your Doctor Irons is too blinded by his work to hear it. He’s quite mad, you know?”
“Do you think it would be possible to create another key?”
“Actually, scientists from some other sector have spent time with me discussing just such a possibility. They’ve been very open to what I have to say.”
“What sector? Was it Red Sector?”
“Yes, that’s the one. The said something about some sort of suit, battle armor or something.”
“Yes, I remember hearing about that. Dr. Irons all but laughed it off as a possibility, but I must admit it sounded intriguing.”
“You know, with the proper application of energy and resistance…”

Joker. Time to wake up. Your meeting with Azuria is in 15 minutes.

I like this, but you're awefully red Manticore. Also, I couldn't help but notice a hero using dual pistols. GIMME GIMME GIMME Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow Joker knows.

Now for the reason I'm here, when do I get my cameo? I'm ready for my closeup Mr. Statesman.

Why thanks ily. Dang I hate noticing typos after it's too late to edit them. Oh well, here's the next part of Chapter 5. We're starting to get into some interesting territory, plot wise, so it's somewhat crucial for you to begin paying closer attention.(those of you not asleep yet that is )


Joker, how did you know?
“It all makes sense now, well at least part of it does. I’ve been telling you that all of this seems uncannily familiar, and now I think I know why.”
Brantiff’s Theory?
“I don’t think we can call it a theory anymore. Dr Brantiff was right, let’s just hope my hunch is wrong.”
Are you going to enlighten me?
“First, I need to see Azuria again, but before that, I think it’s time we rested. The last few hours haven’t gone completely without strain, and I fear we may soon need our strength more than ever.”

I must admit, this city knew how to take care of its heroes. A quick phone call to set up a meeting with Azuria also gained me the address of my apartment within the city. Though it wasn’t as extravagant as some I’ve had the pleasure of crashing in, it was no where near the worst. On the way I stopped off at a small diner where my meal was both delicious and, more importantly, free. The apartment’s bedroom was more than adequate, and in moments I was out like light without even bothering to remove my sword.

******

“How the hell did this happen doctor?! Tell me!”
“I don’t know Joker. I honestly don’t know. You have to believe me.”
“Then turn the damn thing back on. I’ll go after them myself.”
“You’ll do no such thing Captain.”
“But sir, the team should still be at the extraction point. We only lost them a few minutes ago.”
“According to the doctor there, that few minutes could translate to centuries on the other end.”
“He’s right Joker. The wormhole has essentially cut through both space and time. There’s not telling what’s going on out there. It’s best if we just sit and wait for the safeties to be reset.”
“Dammit general, I told you not to send that psychopath Hergotz through that portal. I’ve been telling you he’s not stable for months now. There’s no telling what he’s doing out there.”
“Captain, the only unstable person I see right now is you. You will stand down immediately!”
“Turn that damn machine on NOW! I will not sit back and watch everything I love just be taken away! I will not allow you destroy my life!”
“You are doing a perfectly acceptable job of that yourself Captain. Guards, throw him in the brig. Maybe that will calm him down a bit.”
“I’m sorry sir. I’m just following orders.”
“You’ll regret this General. I’ll guarantee you that.”

Thank you. Here is the beginning to Chapter 5. Unfortunately an unforeseen psychological snafu on behalf of the old Bedlam site admin got the work(and the rest of the boards) wiped, so this is the only existing copy of this story online at the moment. Guess that means no peaking ahead.


Chapter 5: The First Piece

“If I could have one lifetime wish, one wish that would come true, I'd pray to God with all my heart, for yesterday...and you.”

“I would say that you are lucky to be alive, but it is apparent to me that He has a higher purpose for your existence. No one that has fallen into the doctor’s clutches, be they hero or innocent, has ever managed to escape his dark designs. I thank you for your help in this matter Desolate Joker, and I wish to return the favor. It is clear to me that our meeting was preordained. Therefore, I will show you the path, but it is up to you to decide whether or not to take the first step. Ask your question.”
“I don’t understand. How do you know my name? What question? What path?”
“I know your name because I have been told to search for you.”
“Told by who?”
“By Him, of course.”
“Oookaay, but what question am I supposed to ask?”
“I do not know. I only know the answer, nothing more.”
“Then what is the answer?”
“I do not know this either.”
“Then what DO you know?”
“That all our fates, all our destinies, are tied to your own. I do not understand how I am to help you, only that I will.”
“Wonderful. You mind if we leave this place before confusing me any further?”

The trip outside went much quicker than the trip in, and in minutes we were back in the cool breeze of Steel Canyon. The faint light of the approaching dawn reminded me of how long I had been down in that pit, and the fresh air was quickly washing away the last traces of the horrors I had seen below.

What question is he talking about Joker?
“I haven’t got the faintest clue. I’ve got a million questions about this world, but he’s expecting just one.”
Then it is undoubtedly NOT about this world, otherwise you would not require his help.
“Do you honestly believe he was sent to find me?”
I am beginning to believe that there is a lot more going on here than we can even begin to understand.
“Good point. You know what, I think I’ve got it.”

“Tell me, have you ever heard of an Antikytheran Gateway?”
“That is an ancient term. I am surprised that anyone of this world would know it, but yes, I have heard of them. I am no authority on such things, but I will lead you to one who is.”

And now for the stunning conclusion...to chapter 4. Come on people am I writing to the wall here?


“NOW YOU WILL PAY FOR YOUR INTERFERENCE!! I WILL NOT ALLOW MY WORK TO BE STOPPED!!”

Apparently the doctor hadn’t fled after all. Instead, he appeared to have been busy with whatever the foul spawn of some nightmare was that was now staring back at us from the center of the room. A massive hole in the raised platform gave no doubt where he had come from, but what he had become was an entirely different matter.

In place of the small and frail Doctor Vahzilok stood a giant deformed collage of body parts. The right arm looked to have some form of weapon grafted to the flesh, and splayed across the monstrosity’s chest was none other than the dear doctor himself.

In the second it cost me to take all of this in, the beast had charged halfway across the room. My companion, however, had not been dazed. In that same second he had launched himself toward the doctor, fists ablaze.

“AND YOU SHALL BE NO MORE THAN A LEAF ON THE BREATH OF GOD!!”

Their collision shook the room, the shockwave sending a torrent of brackish water in all directions. As my vision cleared I saw the doctor’s monstrous form hurled backwards and through the unforgiving steel of one of his machines. Giving no heed to the sparks sent skyward by the collision, the mysterious stranger followed up on his first assault. While the ‘doctor’ scrambled to his feet an enormous cone of flame erupted from my savior’s hood, engulfing the doctor and his equipment in fire.

Still struggling to his feet, the doctor swung hard with one massive arm and caught the stranger across the chest. The blow sent him flying backwards and off the platform, to land face down near the wall. To his credit, he was back on his feet in an instant and had resumed his attack. Unfortunately, the hailstorm of minute fireballs suddenly issuing from his outstretched hands were unable to find their mark as the monster rolled out from the tangle of broken machinery. Seeing this fight was not going as easily as the stranger had at first thought, I threw myself into the fray.

The monster may have looked slow and lumbering, but he was unbelievably evasive. The only contact I could seem to make was mere glancing blows and flesh wounds. My companion’s attacks, on the other hand, were not having similar problems. Though the doctor was very nimble for a 10 foot behemoth, he was having a hard time keeping us both at bay.

“In Hell, doctor, they do not welcome the rain!”

At those words the air above us erupted as though some unseen electrical storm was suddenly trapped inside the cavern. With a loud peal of thunder a rain of liquid fire began falling about the entire width and breadth of the room. My opponent howled with a mix of pain and rage as the hellish rain burned its way through steel and flesh with equal vigor. With a mix of astonishment and awe I saw that the drops landing on me were no more corrosive than a summer’s rain. It’s too bad the doctor wasn’t enjoying it as much as I was.

Using the distraction caused by the rain, I swung hard across the back of the knees of our dear doctor’s monster, and was rewarded with the familiar drag of sinew and bone. The cut easily severed whatever the doctor had used to support the creature’s weight. Without any support, the monstrosity dropped to its knees, still howling from the hellish rain. Seeing that our opponent was faltering, the stranger leapt forward and seized the doctor’s head in both his hands.

“The weakness of this city to see even the foulest of creatures get there due sickens me, and mocks His plan for us all! As I have said, dear doctor, I am not the Angel of Vengeance, but rest assured you will meet him soon. You want to know who I am doctor? I will make it so that you can never forget! I am the Angel of Torment, and THIS is my trade!”

And with that, the stranger’s hands once again erupted in flame. The doctor’s howls were maddening as their echoes split the deathly silence slowly descending on the cavern. The stranger did not remove his hands until the monstrosity had faded away. I swear I could still hear the doctor’s cries from across the city. In all my travels I have but once heard their equal. I have heard them and I have felt them, because they were my own.

Here's some more of Chapter 4. Enjoy


I don’t know who this guy is Joker, but I’d suggest we make use of his diversion.
“Agreed. How are the nanites coming on that toxin?”
They haven’t found an anti-body, but they’ve scoured your system. All systems are green, Joker.
“That’s all I needed to know.”

I could only guess at how long I had been out, but the damage done by the explosion and the crossbow bolt were fully repaired. That didn’t get rid of the soreness, but that’s nothing new.

Dropping off the edge of the table landed me on a small raised platform covered with steel gratings. The remains of the unfortunate girl were on the table opposite my own, and it was apparent, even to me, that she had been harvested by the doctor or one of his cronies; for what purpose remained to be seen.

Scanning the room, I caught sight of my would-be savior hovering a couple feet off the ground back at the room’s entrance from the sewers. The doctor, on the other hand, was no where to be seen. Figuring there wouldn’t be a better moment, I darted toward the tunnel entrance and the cloaked figure guarding it. His cloak looked to have been orange at one point, but countless burn holes and copious amounts of soot had turned its once vibrant color into a pure expression of his rage. The air around him seemed to dance from the heat pouring from his presence, and I had a sudden thought that this man may have been familiar with the Hellions at one point. Unlike zippo back in the hospital, however, this guy seemed a hell of a lot more unstoppable.

Running as fast as I could across the cavernous room, I watched in amazement as the cloaked stranger razed the room’s inhabitants to the ground. He was a whirlwind of heat and flame, laying waste to all about him. Just as I came within ten paces of him, his focus shifted from the burning husks of the doctor’s makeshift soldiers to me.

My eyes locked on the shadowy space of his hood, and I could’ve sworn I caught sight of skull. In an instant the vision was gone, and I saw in horror that he was preparing to strike. As his hand came forward I saw it erupt into flame, but my momentum made it impossible to avoid his attack. His hand, still alight, struck the center of my chest just as I came within reach. My heart leapt for a moment as it braced for the impact that never came.

There we stood for the longest seconds of my life. I had no doubt that he could destroy me with the merest thought, but he seemed to be pondering something. As quickly as it had happened, the stranger pulled his hand away, and the fire died down.

“He has already taken your soul…brother.”
“What? I don’t underst….”

Here's the beginning to Chapter 4. I've given Dr. V a little monologue of his own, so feel free to comment on it. I didn't take the one from in-game, but instead chose to personalize it based on my view of the character.


Chapter 4: Born of Fire

“And you shall be no more than a leaf on the breath of God.”

“Doctor, his vital signs are fluctuating. The scans don’t make any sense.”
“How so?”
“Well, sir, it’s almost like he’s dreaming, but the toxin should have cut out all brain activity.”
“Then let him dream. Dreams can make us great, well maybe not him. Hand me the cutting tool with the diamond edge please. I do hate body armor. It’s so…dead.”

Joker, I fear they are about to begin their operation.
“I’m open for suggestions.”
I’m gonna bring you to full consciousness. Perhaps you can talk to them.
“Hell, it’s worth a shot.”

“Ahh, you’re awake at last, and here I was afraid you’d miss the whole operation.”
“Who the hell are you?”
”You don’t know? Well, I know who you are. Your name is Desolate Joker, and you are registered as a magic based hero.”
“Sounds about right, now who the hell are you?”
“My dear Mr. Joker, I’m Dr. Vahzilok. But of course you’ve heard of me…”
“Nope, sorry. My subscription to Psycho Monthly ran out ages ago. I must’ve have missed the issue on Dr. Frankenstein wannabes.”
“My dear Mr. Joker, Frankenstein was a hack compared to me. Anyone can get lucky once, but I have created an army of completely loyal followers. This city needs me. I can make it so they no longer fear death.”
”Fear of death is what makes us strong. Fear of death is what makes us human.”
”Oh, a philosopher eh? Well Mr. Joker, that must mean you are feeling very human right now.”
“Quite the opposite, doc. I gave up my humanity lifetimes ago.”
“Oh, is that right? Well, then, you won’t mind if I take a look.”

My mind was racing, trying to come up with some way to escape, but the high-pitched whining of the miniature rotary saw was drowning out any ideas I might’ve had. That’s when I first heard it.

“before God will show us the way.”
“Another hero?”
“Your work is blasphemy, and your soul must pay for your crimes.”
“Blasphemy? You call this blasphemy?! I am merely following in God’s footsteps! I am following his lead! Don’t you see what I have created?! I have succeeded where even God himself has failed. I have beaten the eternal law! I have forged life from the very essence of death itself, and you call it blasphemy?!

I know who you are. Oh yes, I’ve heard what you’re all about. You see yourself as some sort of holy avenger, some form of angel of vengeance come to excise the cancer from this world. Don’t you see that we are one and the same?! We are brothers in this cause! You destroy life to preserve the sanctity of his children’s kingdom, and I create life to ensure its unending future!”
“You are a fool doctor. God’s work is His alone, and your petty attempts to rise to His greatness have become nothing more than a mockery of His noble work. I am not His avenger, doctor, but I assure you that you will soon meet him.”
“KILL HIM!!”